A HOLSWORTHY couple proudly led the parade of prizewinning livestock at the Devon County Show at Westpoint, on Friday.

Tony and Julie Benneworth, who farm at Leworthy Manor, Pyworthy, led Yeomadon Ferdinand, a four-year-old Ruby Red Devon bull, which carried off the Supreme Beef Championship at the popular three-day show.

It was the first time in 27 years that a Ruby Red Devon had won this title.

Mr Ian Campbell, from Northumberland, a renowned beef judge and Charolais specialist, said of Yeomadon Ferdinand: "This is a magnificent bull, well constructed which moves incredibly well and should have a great future."

At last year's Royal Cornwall Show, the Devon Championhip went to the Benneworths.

The Interbred Supreme Pig Championship was won by pig show steward Mr Arthur Uglow, from Milton Abbot, with a Welsh sow.

In the sheep section, which drew many entries, the Supreme Championship was won by a Texel ewe, shown by Mr Paul Quick of Zeal Monachorum.

All three Show days attracted more visitors than last year who enjoyed the first days' of summer celebrating life in Devon. For the second year running, children went free on Saturday when accompanied by an adult.

Show secretary Ollie Allen said: "There was a great buzz from the very start of the Show. It was wonderful to see so many people enjoying a relaxed day together."

Last year more than 91,000 people came to the Show; this year Ollie Allen said she was confident they were going to top that number but would wait until all ticket receipts had been counted before giving a final total.

Next year's Show will be held at Westpoint, Exeter on May 19-21.